Whether you call it a do-over or a mulligan, the philosophy of the second chance has saved many a sports endeavor, homework assignment, career, or relationship. To move beyond the mistake or failure and start fresh is an opportunity for redemption at its most fundamental level. Click the links below to read how these essayists have benefitted from a second chance.

1. The Choice to Do It Over Again
2. Thank You for This Day
3. A Second Chance to Redeem Ourselves
4. Take-Backs and Do-Overs
5. Getting the Copy Right

Throughout his storied career at CBS, Edward R. Murrow hired a number of acclaimed producers and reporters, including William L. Shirer (pictured here with Murrow). This group came to be known as Murrow’s Boys. Several of these journalists also contributed essays to the 1950s This I Believe series. Click the links below to read statements from these esteemed newsmen.

1. A Reporter Quotes His Sources
2. Faith Springs from the Soul
3. The Armor of Cynicism
4. Action Is the Measure
5. At the Frontier

Many people say that listening to music is a very important part of their lives. And those who make music feel even stronger about its power to move them. For both famous musicians and the person sitting in the cubicle next to you, music can inspire some powerful beliefs.

1. The Artistry In Hidden Talents
2. A Musician of Many Cultures
3. Music Makes Me Come Alive
4. Doing Things My Own Way
5. Amazing Grace

Just like in the United States, teachers in China have asked their students to write This I Believe essays. The hopes and passions of these students are evident, even as they write in a second language. Click the links below to learn what these Chinese students believe.

1. Caring for Others
2. The Happiness of Memories
3. A Small Change Is Enough
4. Time Is the Best Medicine
5. The Passion of Art

Some may choose to dwell on the unfortunate evils of existence, but others — these writers among them — prefer to note the essentially good and decent side of humanity. Whether it be found in the simple gesture of holding a door open for someone or the gracious admittance of a stranger in need into one’s home, these individuals manage to find decency in many places, even unlikely ones (compiled by This I Believe intern Colin Hanna).

1. The Presumption of Decency
2. The Universe Is Conspiring to Help Us
3. Untold Stories of Kindness
4. Our Noble, Essential Decency

The hot, thick air of summer provides the perfect breeding ground for thunderstorms. And in the driving rain and brilliant lightning, some people find the flash of inspiration. Click the links below to read what these essayists believe about summer storms.

1. Discovery in a Thunderstorm
2. Behold the Power of Storms
3. The Storms That Define Our Lives
4. Heaven’s Light
5. A Part of the Magic

What do parents hope to teach their children? Not the “sit up straight” or “eat your vegetables” messages, but the deeper lessons for a life well-lived. Click the links below to read the messages these parents are passing from one generation to the next.

1. A Legacy Of Integrity
2. To Be The Best Humans We Can Be
3. Being Yourself
4. Leave the Light On
5. Lessons From A Full And Useful Life

Monty Python’s Michael Palin has said, “Once the travel bug bites there is no known antidote, and I know that I shall be happily infected for the rest of my life.” There’s nothing like a good trip to see the sites, meet new people, and generally refresh the spirit. Click the links below to discover what these essayists believe about their travels.

1. Travelling into the Lives of Others
2. I Have to See the World
3. Mapquest
4. Yankee, Go Home
5. Inviting the World to Dinner

When the founding fathers signed the Declaration of Independence, they pledged their lives, their fortunes, and their sacred honor. Many essayists for This I Believe share that dedication to the principles on which our country was created. Click the links below to see how a former President, a renowned comic book artist, and others explore their beliefs in freedom, democracy, and government.

1. I Help Make Government Work
2. Finding Security In Fundamental Freedoms
3. A Public Man
4. That Old Piece Of Cloth
5. Life, Liberty, And The Pursuit Of Happiness

Not all presents are wrapped in pretty paper with bows and ribbons. Some are gifts of knowledge or wisdom that are passed from one person to another. Click the links below to read what these essayists have learned from family and friends.

1. A Kind and Generous Heart
2. The Power of Hello
3. Everyone Is Included
4. Peace Can Happen
5. Make It Do